Smithsonian launches Kickstarter to save Dorothy's ruby slippers

Institution looking to raise $300,000 to preserve shoes

Dorothy's ruby slippers are clicking their heels three times and hoping for $300,000.

A new effort is underway to preserve the famous red shoes from the 1939 movie The Wizard of Oz.

The ruby slippers, worn by Judy Garland, are currently in Washington D.C. on display at the Smithsonian's National Museum of American History.

But, they're now almost 80 years old and in some serious need of a little tender, love and care.

The sequins are breaking and the bright ruby red color is fading. So, the museum has launched a campaign to get the shoes restored.

The Smithsonian has started a Kickstarter page online where people can donate to the restoration project. The goal is set at $300,000, which would go to further research on how to best preserve the shoes and a special climate-controlled display case.

Although the institution is federally funded, the museum says that restoration projects like the slippers aren't covered by federal appropriations.

If you want to donate, visit the Smithsonian's Kickstarter page to conserve Dorothy's ruby slippers here.